Melbourne Theatres

Dozens of theatrical productions are staged each week in Melbourne, ranging from mainstream musicals to experimental works. Catch a blockbuster at the beautifully restored Princess and Her Majesty's theatres or head down to the Arts Centre and Malthouse to catch quality local productions.

Melbourne’s iconic Princess Theatre is regarded by many as Melbourne’s most spectacular landmark. Dating back as far as 1854, the theatre was purchased by Marriner Theatres in 1986 and underwent total refurbishment to ensure its future viability as a live theatre venue. It reopened in 1989 with the musical ‘Les Miserables’ followed by ‘The Phantom of the Opera.’ Other world-class stage productions to have played at this theatre include Cats, Mama Mia!, The Producers, Dirty Dancing, Jersey Boys & Hairspray

Book tickets to see renowned theatre productions in the magnificently restored theatre that's been part of the Melbourne story since 1929. Today it stands more lavish and grand than ever and continues to host some of the world’s most renowned theatre productions including Disney’s The Lion King,Wicked, Priscilla Queen of the Desert and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Love Never Dies.

Founded in 1953, Melbourne Theatre Company is the oldest professional theatre company in Australia.
Producing up to twelve plays in a subscription season, a full education program and a studio program, it is not only Victoria's major theatre company and one of the major performing arts companies in Australia, but one of the largest theatre companies in the English-speaking world.

Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre retains a vital place in the city’s vibrant live entertainment scene.
It is not only comedy that you will find here. Audiences can enjoy a diverse range of theatre and live entertainment. Famous shows to have played the Comedy Theatre stage include, Keating, Menopause the Musical, Calendar Girls, Harp on the Willow, Waiting for Godot, The Rocky Horror Show, Avenue Q and Rock of Ages.

Catch a show in this heritage-listed building housing the Athenaeum Theatre.Take a seat for live theatre and music at the Athenaeum Theatre, or climb the grand staircase to the Last Laugh for stand-up comedy on weekends.

Built in 1921 as the Victory Theatre (cinema), the National Theatre was converted into a live performance venue in 1972-74. It functions today as a community arts centre for over 80 groups including musical comedy performances, dance companies, multi-cultural events and school groups.